In most cities, an urban trash bin does not “treat” pet waste in any special way. It is simply a collection point. The waste goes into the general residual waste stream, gets picked up by sanitation crews, and is then transported for landfill or incineration, depending on the local system. That is why the most important step is how you bag it before it goes in.
If you are walking a dog and need to use a public bin, the usual rule is simple: pick it up, bag it securely, tie the bag, and place it in a general waste bin. Do not put pet waste in a recycling bin, and do not leave bagged waste beside or on top of an overflowing bin. If the public bin is full, carry the bag with you until you find another bin or take it home. Many parks and streets now have dedicated pet waste bins or dispensers, but where those are not available, a normal litter bin is usually the correct option for small, securely bagged amounts.
At home, pet waste should also go into the general waste bin unless your local council specifically says otherwise. Use a leak-proof bag, tie it closed, and keep the bin lid shut. For smellier waste or hot weather, double-bagging can help. Loose pet waste should not be placed directly into the bin, because it can leak, create odors, and make collection unpleasant or unsafe for workers.
One common mistake is assuming pet waste can go into green waste, food waste, or composting collections. In most places it cannot, because pet waste can contain pathogens and parasites, and the bags used for it may not be accepted by composting facilities. Some cities run separate pet waste composting pilots or have special drop-off points, but these are exceptions. Always check the local rules before using an organics bin.
Urban bins are designed for containment and collection, not for disinfecting waste. That means the system relies on residents and dog owners to bag waste properly, use the right bin, and avoid contaminating recycling. If everyone does that, public bins stay cleaner, collection crews stay safer, and the waste ends up where it should.